The Makāula-'O'oma Trails network was created over 30 years ago partially along forestry roads as well as by public mountain biking enthusiasts. Volunteers with the Peoples for the Advocacy of Trails Hawai'i (PATH) have been instrumental in keeping these trails maintained. The Honua'ula Forest Reserve protects a large tract of native cloud forest at elevations above 3,000 feet on the slopes of Hualālai volcano, uphill from Kona. The Makāula-'O'oma Unit is a smaller portion of the Honua'ula Forest Reserve with a number of trails and old roads that allows hikers to access this lush and beautiful 'ōhi'a and hāpu'u tree fern forest. It is very cool and wet at this higher elevation, especially compared to the hot Kona coast below.
The trail is surrounded on all sides by private property. Please stay on the trail. Leaving the trail may be trespassing.
This forest is located in the ahupua‘a (traditional land divisions) of Makāula and ‘O‘oma. A makāula is a prophet: someone with special powers to see into the future. Mo‘olelo (traditional stories) describe the adventures of the makāula named Moemoe who lived in North Kona and protected the people of Kekaha Wai ‘Ole (meaning, “desolate land without water”). Historically, Hawaiians spoke of the dry region in North Kona District, extending from Honokōhau to Pu‘u Anahulu, as Kekaha Wai ‘Ole.
Do not use any trail or access road that is not delineated by name and color and that may also be displayed on these maps. The marked features are managed for public recreational use. Other trails or roads that branch off from the public features may be on private property, and are not managed for any public recreational use. Access is subject to adjacent landowner approval, and if used without authorization, you will be trespassing and possibly putting yourself at risk.
From Highway 190, turn mauka (uphill) between the 34 and 35 mile markers onto Kaloko Drive. Follow Kaloko Drive for almost 4 miles and turn left onto Makahi Street. Drive to the end of this dead-end street and park near signs for the trailhead.
There are no services. Dogs are allowed. Be respectful of the people that live in the area. Remove all trash.
Do NOT park on Hao Street or use that area to access the Forest Reserve. There is no public parking here and no way to access trails without trespassing on private property.